Albuquerque, New Mexico hosted 2019 Induction Ceremony for The FAI Ballooning Commission International Hall of Fame. 2019 Posthumous Inductee was Norman Pritchard, Great Britain (1929-2004) and 2019 Living Inductee Paolo Bonanno from Italy (1944). The Induction was presented at the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum.
Norman Pritchard was represented by his son and grandson who spoke about Pritchard. Norman Pritchard in 1970 was involved with the Rocinante Balloon Group in Britain and the world. His involvement with 1975 crewing the first British Hot Air Balloon Champion. Competing in Albuquerque and many other worldly locations and instrumental on establishing some of the most important institutions.
Paolo Bonanno represents the third inducted Italian. Paolo was accompanied by friends and his wife during the induction. Paolo’s first flight was in a homemade balloon. Paolo is highly regarded around the world for his contributions as an expert in balloon burners and safety systems.
Doublerock Press photos: https://www.napphotos.com
Mitchell Walters/Nancy Ann Peterson photographer